Browns

THE NFL

LINEBACKER CHRIS Spielman never wanted to quit, not as he fought to get the feeling back in his arms and legs, and not even when doctors told him to retire. Spielman never gave in. His body did.

The intense linebacker, who postponed his comeback from neck surgery last season to care for his family, announced his retirement Monday, two days after a violent hit against the Chicago Bears left him momentarily paralyzed.

Without ever uttering the word ``retired,'' Spielman, his wife Stefanie sitting at his side, ended his stellar 10-year career. ``I would love to keep playing, but I can't jeopardize my legs and my arms,'' he said.

BRONCOS

BRIAN GRIESE is the new heir apparent to John Elway with his promotion Monday as Denver's starting quarterback ahead of Bubby Brister. ``It is not that Bubby Brister has not played at the level I think he can,'' Coach Mike Shanahan said. ``It's that Brian Griese has played so well throughout camp and preseason games that I think he deserves that opportunity.'' Brister, 37, has struggled in the preseason, however, twice throwing interceptions on his first pass attempt. The Broncos (2-2) will finish the preseason Friday night against the San Francisco 49ers.

RAVENS

PRO BOWL defensive end Michael McCrary missed practice because of a contract dispute and will be fined by the team for every day he misses. McCrary, in the final year of his contract, left Saturday for his home in Phoenix after growing frustrated trying to negotiate a contract extension. Coach Brian Billick said the Ravens will not negotiate with McCrary or his agent until he returns to camp.